Il Mondi Odore Perfume Reviews

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Monsieur Carven

Monsieur Carven is an outstanding release from the year 1978. A spicy Oriental that is well deserving of praise and basically unknown outside of fragrance circles. I have always claimed that Monsieur Carven is one of the sexiest, masculine designers to ever be worn and I stand by that today.

Monsieur Carven opens with a shimmering blast of aldehyde, citrus and artemesia. It sparkles and makes the citric accord seem effervescent. Adding to this wonderful accord is a soft, herbal and fruity quality that you just can't seem to put your finger on. It's right there, but in the shadows and is the fingerprint of Monsieur Carven.

The Neroli is well implemented here and while not loud, adds a cutting, floral tone leading into the heart accord. The remainder of floral notes and spicy aspects are condensed, resulting in a sensual, masculine array that will have you sniffing repeatedly. The addition of civet takes this to the over-the-top sexy arena. The sum of these parts is a unique aroma that stops just short of being androgynous.

Once Monsieur Carven begins to drydown, the leather and castoreum usher the fragrance into a more virile direction. The transitions aren't obvious as they're happening, but noticeable after they transpire. Mossy amber is realized albeit slowly, as is vanilla. These dilatory base notes are perfectly timed in spite of being sluggish.

Sillage for Monsieur Carven is very good and longevity is about 6 hours on my skin. I have no recourse but to give an aroused thumbs up for Monsieur Carven. Any Riviera playboy would do well wearing this.